The Best Soul Music of 1973

A look at the best soul music of 1973, including hits by Marvin Gaye, Al Green, and Stevie Wonder.

Introduction

The year 1973 was a landmark one for soul music, with a wealth of classic tracks released by both established artists and up-and-coming talents. It was a time of transition for the genre, as the era of early-’70s funk was giving way to a new age of disco and quiet storm. At the same time, traditional soul sounds were being updated for the modern era with sleek production values and sophisticated arrangements. The result was an embarrassment of riches when it came to great soul music in 1973.

Among the many highlights of the year were Al Green’s sublime “Let’s Stay Together,” which rode to the top of the pop charts; Marvin Gaye’s sensual “You’re All I Need to Get By,” which did likewise; and Stevie Wonder’s anthemic “Living for the City,” which tackled urban issues with unflinching honesty. Gaye also delivered the masterpiece album Let’s Get It On, whileAretha Franklin returned to form with her excellent album Amazing Grace.

These are just a few of the many reasons 1973 is rightly considered one of the best years in soul music history. Read on for our picks of the 10 best soul songs of 1973.

Al Green – Call Me (1973)

Al Green’s 1973classic, “Call Me,” is a perfect example of the best soul music of the 1970s. The song features Green’s signature falsetto vocals and soulful lyrics, which are set against a backdrop of funk-infused instrumentation. “Call Me” was a massive hit upon its release, peaking at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Green his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

Marvin Gaye – Let’s Get It On (1973)

Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” was released in the summer of 1973, and it quickly became one of the biggest selling and most well-known soul records of all time. The sexy, sensual title track is a masterpiece of quiet storm soul music, and it remains one of Gaye’s most beloved songs. The rest of the album is equally exceptional, with beautiful ballads (“Come Get to This”), fiery funk tracks (“You Sure Love to Ball”), and atmospheric mid-tempo numbers (“Keep Gettin’ It On”). With its mix of steamy seduction and spiritual yearning, Let’s Get It On perfectly captures the mood of 1973, and it stands as one of the greatest soul albums of all time.

The Stylistics – You Make Me Feel Brand New (1973)

The Stylistics were one of the most popular soul groups of the early 1970s. They had a string of hits that combined the smooth, sophisticated sound of Philly soul with the intensely emotional vocal style of lead singer Russell Thompkins Jr. “You Make Me Feel Brand New” is one of their most beloved songs. It was co-written by Thom Bell and Linda Creed, two of the architects of the Philly sound. The lyrics are a beautiful expression of love and gratitude, and Thompkins’ vocal performance is absolutely stunning.

The Spinners – I’ll Be Around (1973)

The Spinners’ “I’ll Be Around” may very well be the perfect soul song. It’s an achingly beautiful ballad, but with a twist: the narrator isn’t pining for a lost love, he’s actually thanking her for breaking his heart. “I’ll be around / When you want me / I’ll be around / From now on,” he sings, over and over again, like a prayer. The result is a soul song that’s both heartbreaking and uplifting, a rare feat.

Conclusion

1973 was an incredible year for soul music, giving us a wealth of classic tracks that are still loved and appreciated today. It was a tough task choosing just 10 essential tracks from such a strong pool of contenders, but we feel that these songs truly represent the best that 1973 had to offer. From the sweet, breezy sounds of Al Green to the hard-hitting funky grooves of James Brown, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the best soul music that 1973 has to offer.